 | Translations and Poems Written on Several Subjects |  |
ODE.
[What need with Art my fond Excess]
I
What need with Art my fond ExcessOf Tenderness to blind?
While from my Looks, fair Nymph! you guess
The Secret of my Mind.
II
In vain I seek to hide the FireMy artless Eyes reveal:
In vain the Flames such Charms inspire
I study to conceal.
116
III
Then, Cælia, when I fondly gaze,And you the Cause explore;
Your Malice with my Torment plays:
The Cause you knew before.
IV
While all Things show I love — ah whySuch Coldness dost thou feign?
And in soft Anguish while I lye,
Regardless see my Pain.
V
By Love oppress'd, and by Despair,I should your Pity move:
Why should I meet a Fate severe
When all my Crime is Love.
VI
For cold Neglect, or proud Disdain,That Form was ne'er design'd:
Or cease to Charm, or ease my Pain,
And be less Fair, or Kind.
| Translations and Poems Written on Several Subjects | |